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LIBERTY, N.Y. — An elementary school student in Liberty has been diagnosed with a confirmed case of scabies, school district officials said.

Officials at the Sullivan County school district were informed Thursday of the diagnosis for the unidentified student at Liberty Elementary School.

Scabies is an infestation of the skin by a human itch mite. The mites burrow under a person’s skin, where it lives and lays its eggs. The mite is transferred person to person by prolonged contact of the skin to another person. That can mean people who sleep together or household members who share towels and/or bedding.

Scabies produces a rash and intense itching, which can keep people awake at night. It is curable, but requires a prescription medication from a doctor. Small red bumps that look like tiny pimples or tiny bites can form on the skin.

The most common area for scabies to develop on the body are warmer sites such as skin folds or areas where clothing is tight.

The district will be notifying all parents about the case of scabies, including information on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

All parents in the district will be notified about the scabies case, and information will be sent home with all students on symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of scabies.

If you suspect you or your child may have scabies, contact your doctor. For questions, call the Sullivan County Public Health Services at 845-292-5910 or your primary health care provider.